September 28, 2026 · 3 min read
Why garage door springs are replaced in pairs
If one torsion spring broke, the other one is close behind. Here's why we replace both — and why you shouldn't touch them yourself.
The springs lift the door, not the opener
On a sectional door, the torsion springs above the opening counterbalance the weight of the door. The opener only guides it up and down. When the springs are right, a heavy door feels light by hand.
Same age, same wear
Springs are rated for a number of open-and-close cycles. Two springs installed together have done the same cycles, so when one breaks the other has little life left. Replacing both keeps the door balanced and saves a second emergency call a few weeks later.
Signs a spring is broken
A loud bang from the garage, a visible gap in the spring coil, a door that suddenly feels very heavy, or an opener that strains, stops or only lifts the door a few inches.
Leave it to a technician
Torsion springs hold a lot of stored energy. Don't try to adjust, wind or release them, and don't keep using the opener with a broken spring. Keep people clear of the door and call us.
